Celebrating our new Talent Programme at Acacium Group
We believe our people are our greatest strength. Our commitment to exceptional care starts with creating an inclusive, empowering workplace. Our new programme designed to support the career development of talent from a broad range of lived experiences and backgrounds, with a focus on removing barriers and enabling equitable growth opportunities. Colleagues from our business Xyla, part of Acacium Group, were the first participants of this programme led and facilitated by the People and Culture team.
A vision for inclusive growth
Xyla exists to improve people’s lives. Our clinician-led services help people avoid hospitals or accelerate them safely through them. They provide expert care in hospitals, at home, care homes, in the community, and virtually and digitally. Achieving this means fostering a culture where diverse perspectives are celebrated. In June last year, they launched the first phase of the Talent Programme, focusing on improving representation from ethnically diverse backgrounds.
This initiative supports our mission to ensure our workforce reflects the communities we serve. After all, inclusive companies are three times more likely to be high-performing, and employees at diverse companies are 12% more likely to feel a sense of belonging
Celebrating our first cohort
Nine participants have successfully completed the programme. Their feedback speaks volumes:
- 100% found it beneficial for personal and career development.
- Many described it as transformative, helping overcome imposter syndrome and build confidence.
- It created a safe space for open dialogue, with inspiring guest speakers and shared learning.
- Participants gained valuable insights into leadership and communication.
They also had the opportunity to share ideas for improvement and will continue working with our People and Culture team to shape future iterations.
‘Feeling a sense of shared experiences amongst the group – I truly felt safe to open up and could relate a lot to other’s experiences (even though we were all very different).’ Participant at Xyla.
A new chapter begins
What sets this programme apart is its “Diversity by Design” approach. Developed in collaboration with the People and Culture team and key stakeholders across Xyla, it is shaped by their lived experiences, aspirations and the barriers they’ve faced. This ensures the programme is not only relevant but deeply personal and empowering.
Our Race and Ethnicity Network (REN) has championed the programme, with special thanks to Nicola Ellis-Webb for her sponsorship and advocacy.
“We all need sponsors. Sponsors are those people who will say your name in rooms which you do not yet have access to. I have always been blessed to have divinely appointed sponsors along my journey, but it is perfectly reasonable to seek out sponsors. The value of mentors and coaches cannot be overstated especially if you are facing systemic barriers or other professional challenges and you need help to navigate these.” Nicola Ellis-Webb, Co-Senior Sponsor of Acacium Group’s Race and Ethnicity Network
Looking ahead
The Talent Programme is one-way Acacium Group invests in our people. By creating opportunities for diverse colleagues to grow and lead, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive organisation that reflects the communities we serve.
We look forward to expanding the programme and supporting every colleague in reaching their full potential. Join an organisation that cares about development https://acaciumgroup.com/careers-with-acacium-group/
